The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has released dramatic video footage Tuesday of last week’s deputy-involved shooting on Glenn Hills Drive that left an armed suspect in critical condition.
The release comes after a meeting between Sheriff Gino Brantley, Chief Deputy Robert Sams, Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard, and family members of the suspect, Brandon Hill, who were given the opportunity to view the footage before it was made available to the public.
See it here:
“We understand the community’s interest in this case, and we are committed to transparency and accountability in our law enforcement actions,” said Sheriff Brantley. “We also wanted to ensure the family had the opportunity to view the video before it was made public.”
Background on the incident: Last Thursday, Richmond County deputies were dispatched to 3500 Primrose Drive at 1:08 p.m. following a call about a domestic dispute. The female complainant reported that Hill had broken windows at her home and stolen her firearm before fleeing the scene. Deputies began searching for Hill, and at 1:29 p.m., Deputy David Hopkins located him walking on Glenn Hills Drive.
After confirming Hill’s description, Deputy Hopkins used his vehicle’s PA system to issue commands, asking Hill to raise his hands. As Hopkins exited his vehicle, he ordered Hill multiple times to drop the weapon. Instead, Hill raised the firearm and pointed it at Deputy Hopkins on two occasions, as shown in the in-car video footage. In response to this immediate threat, Deputy Hopkins fired his weapon, striking Hill.
Hill was immediately secured, and Deputy Hopkins began rendering aid while calling for emergency medical services. During the encounter, Hill made a statement suggesting he wanted the situation to escalate, further indicating the seriousness of the threat he posed.
Investigation and findings: The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Regional Force Investigation Team conducted a thorough review of the incident, and the findings were also examined by the District Attorney’s Office. Both agencies concluded that Deputy Hopkins’ actions were justified in response to the credible and immediate threat to public safety and officer safety.
As part of its commitment to transparency, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has made the body-worn camera footage available to the public. The footage clearly establishes the sequence of events and further supports the conclusion that the deputy’s actions were in line with department policy and law enforcement protocol.
Commitment to transparency and accountability: Sheriff Brantley emphasized this his agency recognizes that any use of force is a serious matter, and they remain committed to ensuring deputies act in accordance with the law, department policy, and their duty to protect and serve the community.
